For the third year, Spiegelworld kicks off its New York engagement with Absinthe at the Spiegeltent. A host of performers bring to life — in the opulent, mirror-lined venue — what is described in press notes as a mix of "fair ground attraction with torch song and spectacle."

The tents of Spiegelworld will host performances through Nov. 2.

Making its debut Aug. 7 will be the new cirque show Désir. Inspired by 20th century Paris, the production takes "audiences backstage at the greatest nightclub the world has known." Collaborating on Désir are director Wayne Harrison, choreographer John "Cha Cha" O'Connell ("Enchanted," "Moulin Rouge"), music director Josh Abrahams ("Moulin Rouge") and Parisian jewelry house, Boucheron.

Producer Ross Mollison said in a previous statement, "Never before has such a lavish production been created for a Spiegeltent. We have assembled the most beautiful aerial and acrobatic acts from around the world, some of which have never been seen before in such an intimate performance space."

Also on the bill for Spiegelworld's 2008 Manhattan stay are The Gazillionaire's Late Nite Lounge, which will take place in the new traveling venue The Deluxe. Confirmed musical performers include Ethyl Eichelberger Award winner Justin Bond and Meow Meow (Aug. 10), Amanda Palmer (Aug. 11) and Chicago's Ute Lemper (Aug. 26) as well as Martha Wainwright, The Bird and The Bee, Deerhoof, The Yard Dogs Road Show and The Citizens Band. Spiegelworld is located at the Fulton Fish Market, Pier 17 at the South Street Seaport under the Brooklyn Bridge.

Tickets are available by calling (212) 279-4200 or by visiting SpiegelWorld.